In pictures: Ten dazzling design details spotted at the Motor City car show
When it comes to car design, the devil's in the details, at least at the North American International Auto Show. Here are 10 cool design details that are worth a second look
The beautiful blue Alfieri signature on this Maserati may be hard to read, but it’s a showstopper. And it’s authentic – well replicated from an original company document. Named after Alfieri Maserati, one of the founding brothers of the company, this sleek Italian 2+2 concept pays tribute to Maserati’s 100th anniversary.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
This Mercedes-Benz F 015 fuel cell plug-in hybrid is a driverless concept car that takes relaxation to a whole new level. The four swivelling chairs are the coolest design feature in the cabin. You can sit back, relax, and watch a movie – just like you would at home.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
The flush door handles on this gorgeous Acura NSX hybrid sports car is a hot design cue these days – other popular models like the Jaguar F-Type share the same innovative design feature. The door handle blends in seamlessly with the door, making its profile look sleek and sexy.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
Smart storage solutions are a necessity, especially when you’re driving a truck. The all-new Nissan Titan has a lockable storage bin under the rear seat for hiding valuable items such as a cell phone or wallet. A rear fold-out floor panel is also ideal for carrying larger items that you don’t want to carry in the bed.Nissan
Audi has cleverly designed the charging port for its A3 e-tron behind its badge on the front grille. Just push on Audi’s trademark four rings and it slides over to reveal the charging port hidden beautifully under the company logo.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
This stunning 911 Targa 4 GTS is a Porsche for all seasons. Watching the fully-automated top drop is like an intricate ballet. It’s elegant yet quick, lowering in less than 20 seconds.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
The sharply chiselled flying buttresses on the BMW i8 are aesthetic and functional. They make the car more aerodynamic by pushing air through the gap and out the back end. The result is a faster, more planted, and fuel-efficient hybrid sports car.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
Headlamps are like jewellery on a car. They add serious bling to any ride. And the Ford GT supercar is no exception. Filled with numerous eye-catching design features, its headlamps are especially striking and bold – definitely the best lights on the show floor.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
Slim and narrow side-view mirrors look sleek and stylish on this sleek Infiniti Q60 concept coupe. They add dramatic flair to the overall design, but they also serve a purpose, making the vehicle more aerodynamic.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail
Rims can make or break a car. In this case, the funky circular design on the rims of the Alfa Romeo 4C make this Italian gem stand out even more on the road.Petrina Gentile/The Globe and Mail